My heels hurt

[Pattypoos]

Has this happened to anyone else? I'm guessing it's the shock of impact on my feet after years of relative inactivity. I am a bit worried that if I try to run I will make it worse and also turn an enjoyable challenge into an ordeal. Any tips on management will be gratefully received. Am only in Week 2 so think resting is best - I can always start again.

[ArthurJG Graduate]

It sounds like it might be a footwear issue to me. Maybe you need running shoes with more cushioning in that area. I know most people get by with whatever they already have until week 4 but in my case it was at precisely the same point - week 2 run 1 - that I decided I was going no further without proper running shoes. Calves and knees, not heels, in my case. To be fair my previous trainers were pretty awful though! If you haven't done so, it might be worth going to a specialist running shop where they can recommend shoes based on your running style (and tell them about the heels issue so they know you need protection in that area.) If you are on a budget tell them that too so they don't bring out the most expensive stuff! Good running shoes aren't cheap but they make such a difference and help avoid injury.

[Pattypoos Graduate in reply to ArthurJG]

Will bear that in mind although I think my shoes are quite well cushioned. Thanks for the reply!

[Hidden]

I know it's early days, but are you able to tell if you are hitting the ground on your heels? it could be a matter of adjusting which part of your foot hits the ground with the most impact. But I know that's very difficult to determine on one's own. Maybe try to pay attention to that the next time you're out?

[Pattypoos Graduate in reply to Hidden]

Will do.

[Carolinemcd Graduate]

Hopefully it’s not plantar fasciitis which is very painful! Feels like your heel is bruised. Just in case find a step and stand with your heels hanging off and gently lower them. Do it a few times a day to stretch out the muscles. People often get it from wearing too flat shoes like flip flops on holiday.

[Pattypoos Graduate in reply to Carolinemcd]

I wondered about that too. I am indeed doing the stretches you mentioned and it seems to be helping. Will also delay my next run until it feels better. Thanks!

[Bookworm20 in reply to Pattypoos]

I have plantar fasciitis and as well as the exercises mentioned I find it eases off after a run x

[Pattypoos Graduate in reply to Bookworm20]

It's actually starting to run that worries me! I managed on Saturday but it really hurt to just walk yesterday. A bit better today so am giving it another day or two before venturing out.